Waukesha Spring Brewing Company
aka
Waukesha Brewing, Malting and Distilling Company
aka
White Rock Mineral Spring Co.
or White Rock Spring Brewery
Waukesha Spring Brewing Company, source: Chicago Eagle newspaper, October 6, 1894, page 11
by Michael R. Reilly, editor, March 27, 2013, copyright
Last updated08/16/2015
editor: I’ve found a couple of sources that say that a “C. Steiner” was the originating brewery, but as you will see from the information provided below, the Waukesha Spring Brewing Company was the original, built by a Chicago based trust.
Also see the Waukesha Imperial Spring Brewing Company.
Wisconsin
Waukesha – The prospectus for the new White Rock Mineral Spring Co., incorporated under the laws of Illinois for the purpose of purchasing the White Rock spring and erecting a large brewing and ice plant, has been published. In brief its statements are as follows: The capital stock is $500,000, divided into shares of $100 each, and non-assessable. The company, to provide the funds for its needs, will issue $350,000 first mortgage 6 per cent bonds in denominations of $1,000 each, to be secured by quit claim deed on the property of the company, placed in a trustee’s hands. A brewery of 45,000 barrels capacity will be erected and a malt house of 100,000 bushels capacity and also a bottling establishment, at an estimated cost of $225,000. The buildings are to be equipped with the latest improved machinery. An ice plant to cost $50,000 will be built with a producing capacity of 30 tons per day. The expenses of the company are estimated at $74,600 per year; the cost of the buildings at $525,000; total expenses, $393, 397.89; the sales per year, $585,490, and the net profits, $192, 092.11. Architect August Maritzen, of Chicago, has already prepared the plans for the entire plant, which will be thoroughly modern in every respect.
Source: Industrial Refrigeration, Vol. 3, 1892, page 288
http://books.google.com/books?id=CE1AQAAMAAJ&pg=PA288&dq=Maritzen+waukesha&hl=
en&sa=X&ei=L0pSUYDbFa3-iQLE1oCICw&ved=0CC4Q6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=Maritzen%20waukesha&f=false
also see Ice and Refrigeration, Volume 3, page 290 (same article as above)
BIG BREWERY DEAL
Option Given on Land and Plans in Course of Preparation
Manager Welch of the White Rock Springs Company has given an option on lands situated east of the spring property proper, which, if taken by the parties holding the option, will be used for the purposes of a great brewery. Plans for the buildings are being prepared by a Chicago architect, and it is estimated that the plant will cost $400,000. There is a valuable unimproved spring on the property involved in the deal. It is said the plans will be submitted for bids in another week. The option on the land runs for two months yet.
Waukesha Freeman June 9, 1892, page 1
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THE BIG BREWERY DEAL
PROSPECTS ARE THAT IT WILL BE CONSUMMATED.
A Company With $1,000,000 Capital. To Combine the Manufacture of Ice With That of Beer
Some weeks ago The Freeman gave the particulars so far as could be obtained at the time of a big project in the way of a beer manufactory that was contemplated by Chicago parties. At that time it was known that the projectors were negotiating with the White Rock Spring Co. for a tract of land lying east of the White Rock Spring, on which, by the way, there is an undeveloped fountain of pure water. During these negotiations plans were in preparations by architect August Maritzen of Chicago.
NEW DEVELOPMENT
Since the publication mentioned it transpires that the purchase of the Spring Co. contemplates all its realty here by the brewery company, which proposes to issue stock to the amount $1,000,000 and to manufacture ice for table use from the spring water as well as the beer.
THE PLANS
have been in the hands of various contractors and they indicate something of the scope of the enterprise. They call for a malt-house four stories high, 108 feet long and 55 feet wide; a refrigerator seven stories high, 155 feet long; an ice-machine house eight stories high, 155 feet long and 55 feet wide. The boiler house and wash-house will
be two stories in height and 107 feet long. The buildings are to be of stone, Milwaukee brick and steel.
Oscar Kine, president of the Waukesha Stone Co., who constructed several of the large brewery buildings at Milwaukee is one who figured on the plans, and he will bid on furnishing the material and doing the work. He is very confident that the scheme will proceed to a full completion of the proposed plans.
Source: Waukesha Freeman June 30, 1892, page 1
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Brewery Likely to be Erected
It is currently reported that the big brewery deal involving the sale of the White Rock Spring property has been consummated and that the brewery will be erected. C. A. Welch, the proprietor of the White Rock, is out of town, and the truth cannot be learned.
Source: Waukesha Freeman September 22, 1892, page 1
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THE BIG NEW BREWERY
Company With a Million of Capital Will Build in the Spring
The Wisconsin of Tuesday evening contained the following in confirmation of the various reports that have been in circulation for a year past.
“Vice-President Thome, of the Peter Hand Brewing Company, of Chicago, has commissioned Architect Maritzen, the designer of the Blatz Brewing Company’s new building, to plan a brewery to be built in Waukesha. Mr. Thome is a member of the syndicate that has been organized to brew beer in Waukesha, and he says the plant will commence operations with a capacity of 100,000 barrels per annum. The capital stock of the company is to be $1,000,000 and it will be called the Waukesha Brewing, Malting and Distilling Company. Building operations are to be commenced May 1.”
Enquires about here fail to furnish any additional information respecting the big deal.
Waukesha Freeman November 24, 1892, page 1 (Editor’s note: This became the Waukesha Spring Brewing Company)
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BUILD A BIG BREWERY
THE MUCH TALKED OF PLAN ABOUT TO MATERIALIZE
A Chicago Company with a Capital of Two Hundred Thousand. The Site Selected and Bought.
There have been many reports of the erection of a large brewery in this village. This time the report seems founded on fact.
Saturday afternoon a tract of land about four acres, bounded by the Chicago & North Western and Wisconsin Central railways and Maple avenue, was transferred, through the efforts of Frank Harland, from M. D. Cutler, R. E. Labar, J. J. Wolfe and F. Aiken to M. Thome, G. F. Lugg, A. Maritzen, of Chicago, and Oscar Kuie, of Waukesha. the deeds were all signed and delivered, and the consolidation, in part, transferred. The parties to whom the land was sold comprise a Chicago syndicate with a capital of $200,000. A brewery of 100,000 barrels capacity will be erected soon as suitable plans can be drawn and the ground cleared off.
Mr. Thome, the prime mover, is vice-president of the P. Partz Brewing Co. of Chicago, and has for some time been trying to obtain spring property here on which a brewing plant could be erected. The movement to buy the White Rock Spring last spring was backed by this syndicate, as were also the negotiations for the Weber brewery last summer.
Mr. Thome is a personal friend of August Jacobson and they were in conversation regarding the matter for some time Saturday. He said that Chicago parties had recognized the value of Waukesha mineral water in the manufacture of beer and would have located here before but for the difficulty of obtaining land suitable for the purpose at their price. He said farther that the site obtained was the very best in the city and that springs with an abundant supply could easily be developed on the premises.
Mr. Maritzen, whose name appears on the deed, is a brewery architect and has prospective plans already drawn for the buildings.
Source: Waukesha Freeman March 2, 1893, page 1
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The stockholders of the new Brewery Co. are said to have been in town Saturday to look over the vacant land purchases and to decide on the further prosecution of the enterprise.
Waukesha Freeman March 16, 1893, page 8
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To Build the Brewery
August Jacobson returned from Chicago Saturday, where a meeting of the stockholders was held. A meeting to elect directors will be held here on Tuesday next. Work will commence on the building very soon, a side-track is to be built by the Central Railway Company to facilitate the work of delivering material. Waukesha people have taken $36,000 of the stock.
Waukesha Freeman April 13, 1893, page 6
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Ground was broken Monday on the new brewery enterprise. Among other things, a new spring is to be developed, to supply water to the institution. The Central Ry. Co. is also arranging to put in a side track.
Waukesha Freeman April 27, 1893, page 10
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BREWERY PLANS COMPLETED
The plans of the new brewery have been fully completed at last and are now in the hands of August Jacobson for submission to contractors. Bids will be received up to Wednesday, June 7th, and will be opened the following Thursday.
Waukesha Freeman June 1, 1893, page 8
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More Brewery Bids
Thursday, June 8th, was the day set for opening the bids for the construction of the new brewery. The bids were considered too high and the contract will not be let until another set of bids are received. As much work as possible of the brewery work, the carpenter and mason work, the painting, plumbing, etc., will be let to local contractors.
Waukesha Freeman June 15, 1893, page 2
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BREWERS DISAGREE
THE WAUKESHA SPRING BREWERY CO ENJOINED
Contract Let, and Work was Commenced – August Dieman objects, – But the Trouble is Settled
The contract for the mason work of the new brewery was let last week, to Fred Busse, of Chicago, for $27,000, and he arrived here on Monday, with a force of men and begun preparations for business. On Tuesday forenoon, however, he was enjoined at the instance of August Dieman, it is said, a stockholder in the company to the amount of $15,000, who was one of the bidders for the masonry work, but who was some $7,000 above Busse.
Members of the company who were interviewed yesterday, said that they did not know how it was hoped to make an injunction hold under the circumstances, and that if Mr. Dieman wished to dispose of his stock, he could do so. It was also stated positively that the enterprise was going ahead, for the contracts were let.
According to a statement by Mr. Busse, he has to complete his work in 100 days, and forfeits $50, daily, for each day over the time that it requires to complete the job. For every days less than 100 that the mason work is finished, the contractor is to receive $50.
The contracts for the carpenter and iron work were let to Chicago bidders.
Later – Since the above was in type, the trouble mentioned has been settled, and work is progressing. A large force of men is employed.
Waukesha Freeman June 22, 1893, page 1
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Brewery Work Going Ahead
Contractor Fred Busse has a force of sixteen men excavating and preparing the foundation of the new brewery. Ha has been handicapped by the other contractors in getting started but from now on will force the work. He will employ Waukesha labor and purchase material here as far as possible. About twenty skilled brick layers will be put on as soon as the stone work on the main building is sufficiently advanced. There will be four large buildings, the largest being five and six stories high of Chicago cream brick above ine story of rock laced stone. Several changes have been made in the original plans.
Waukesha Freeman June 29, 1893, page 4
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An Anti Trust Brewery
The Tribune has this to say of the new Waukesha brewery:
“A syndicate of Chicago men began work last week at Waukesha on a brewery plant. It was located at that point so that the spring water could be used as a basis for the beer. The use of such water is an experiment here, and will be watched with interest. The company consists of M. Thome, who resigned from the position of Vice-President of the Peter Hand Brewery company; City Oil Inspector William Mangler, who will be the manager, twenty of the wealthiest liquor dealers of the city, who have become discontented with the severe restrictions of the brewery trust. The concern will be run on an anti-trust independent.”
Waukesha Freeman July 13, 1893, page 1
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Brewery Corner Stone
To-day (Thursday) at 4 p.m. will occur the ceremonies attendant upon laying the corner-stone of the new brewery, opposite the Northwestern depot. A special train will come from Chicago, leaving that city from the depot, corner Fifth Ave. and Harrison St., at 10 a.m., and returning at 9:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served on the train.
J. J. Hadfield, president of the village, is on the program as orator of the day, but says his name was used without his permission and he will not make an address as public speaking is not in his line.
Waukesha Freeman August 10, 1893, page 8
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Big Sales in Prospect
J. E. McElroy was a member of the Chicago party which came to Waukesha to assist at the laying of the new brewery. The Hygeia Spring was open on that day and Mr. McElroy made himself as agreeable as possible. It is reported that there is a possibility of his selling the Hygeia Springs property to the brewery company. Under the present conditions the property is a dead weight on his hands and he will doubtless make a big effort to unload. It is also reported that there is a possibility of the Fountain House changing hands, and that in case the sale is consummated, a mile track will be laid out on the hotel grounds. The purchaser named is a wealthy New Yorker who owns a flourishing Florida resort.
Waukesha Freeman August 17, 1893, page 1
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BREWERY CORNER STONE
It was Laid Last Thursday – A Large Crowd Present
Last Thursday was the date fixed upon for laying the corner ‘stone of the Waukesha Spring Brewery, and there came to town for the purpose a rollicking company of Chicagoans via the Wisconsin’Centra1 line, on a special train. -There were fully a hundred in the party and they reached town at 1:15 p. m. Headed by a brass band the}’ marched down Grand Avenue and Main Street to the Hygeia Spring where they regaled themselves with water and singer ale for half an hour or more. This was a very appropriate commencement for a brewery corner stone laying and prepared them for the subsequent proceedings. At the C. & N. W. Ry. depot grounds, near the site of the brewery,” a large tent was pitched, underneath which were long tables, and shortly after 2 p. m. the visitors gathered there and partook of liquid refreshments before the ceremonies at the brewery were begun. la the meantime several hundred citizens assembled there.
Wm. Mangier, manager of the brewery company, directed operations and at 4 p. m. introduced Judge M. J. Kane of Chicago as master of ceremonies. The judge made a fifteen minute speech commendatory of the enterprise in question und dwelt some length upon the temperate nature of beer and of the liberal which should prevail regarding; it and its proper use. He spoke of the excellent judgment shown by the company in selecting a point where the purest water could be had as the one for making their bear. In concluding deposited various articles in the corner stone receptacle, i n c l u d i n g the cards of the company, a picture the brewery, cards of the contractor and other, covering all with an American Hag.
Judge Kane then introduced President Hadfield who welcomed the visitors in a few pleasant words an offered the prediction that in ten years there would be more and large breweries here than at any point America. He gave as his reason for this belief that to make good beer required good water, and Waukesha water is the best on earth.’ At the direction of the master of ceremonies President Hadfield broke a quart bottle of champagne upon the cornerstone and the masons soon complete the work of closing the space about the receptacle. Manager Mangier the invited the crowd to luncheon, which consisted of beer and sandwiches.
At the end of the repast the visitor procured omnibuses and drove about town, being in a hilarious and happy frame of mind.
President Thome, Secretary Maritzen, Treasurer F. H. Marx and Supt J. B. Nierendorf of the brewery company, were in the party and did everything they could for the entertainment of the visitors.
Many wealthy men were in the party and it is said they obtained a very favorable impression of Waukesha and its prospects.
Waukesha Freeman August 17, 1893, page 4 [editor – F. H. Marx or Frederick H., possible relative to Town of Lisbon Conrad Marx’ family]
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J. Higby has leased his Maple avenue residence to Mr. Neirendorf, the brew master of the new brewery. Mr. Higsby will remove to Fot Atkinson.
Waukesha Freeman October 5, 1893, page 8
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Work on the Brewery
Since the advent of the short days workman employed at the brewery have only half an hour at noon and are dismissed at half past five. The work is advancing rapidly and the buildings make a fine appearance. The great chimney, 125 feet high is completed and the stars and stripes wave from the top.
Waukesha Freeman October 12, 1893, page 8
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Sale of Real Estate
Dr. Elliott sold his lot on the corner of Main and Martins Sts., to Rudolph Wosslick, of Chicago, the price paid being $3,200. The purchaser will erect a building to cover the whole lot, and to be used as restaurant and saloon. Mr. Wosslick is interested in the new brewery being erected here.
Waukesha Freeman November 16, 1893, page 1
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[editor – this article talks of Chicago foreign investment in the village of Waukesha, that they should embrace it and scorn Milwaukee; Fountain Hotel, new brewery, and several springs mentioned]
Waukesha Freeman, Thursday, February 8,1894,Waukesha,Wisconsin, page 1
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No Truth in the Report
Last week a reported sale of the Mineral Rock spring to representatives of Pabst brewing company of Milwaukee, awakened some interest. It was also reported that a large brewery was to be erected. The president of the Mineral Rock company said Saturday that the report. as far as the company’s property was concerned, was without foundation, and that the property could not be sold before next September, owing to the insolving of the corporation. Capt. Pabst may, however, be on track of a brewery site here. Without a doubt the place has decided advantages for the manufacture of beer.
Waukesha Freeman March 8, 1894, page 5
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A Great Gale
A tremendous gale of wind prevailed in this vicinity for several hours Saturday night. Some windows were blown in at the new brewery and other slight damage in different parts of town resulted. some trees were blown down.
Waukesha Freeman March 15, 1894, page 1
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The Waukesha Spring Brewery will get their apparatus under way during the latter part of the week, when the first brew may be expected.
Waukesha Freeman March 15, 1894, page 8
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Farmers desiring malted grains, can obtain them from the new brewery by calling at B. Lyons, 310 Williams street,
Waukesha Freeman March 29, 1894, page 8
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The Spring Brewing Company purchased a fine team of roans from Hugh Gilson last week. The team weighs 3000 pounds and both animals are as sound as possible. They will be used in the delivery department of the Brewery. The price paid was about $400.
Waukesha Freeman April 19, 1894, page 8
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BEER WILL BE PLENTY
DEDICATION OF THE NEW BREWERY TO-DAY
Dignitaries Expected From Chicago and Milwaukee. First Barrel of Beer Sold for $75.
To-day will be a large one in the history of the Spring Brewery, being the day set for its formal dedication. Elaborate preparations have been made to celebrate the event. A special train will arrive here from chicago via. Milwaukee, at 1 o’clock p.m., which will bring a large delegation who will be regaled and feasted while services of appropriate characted are being held. The program has not been arranged fully as yet, but mayor Hopkins of Chicago and Koch of Milwaukee are expected to be present and a prominent place on the program will be reserved for them. Shortly after the arrival of the excursionists, a lunch will be served to them and after the exercises, beer will be dealt out to everybody present.
The building and grounds will be decorated with flags and bunting and from the main flag staffs will be displayed two large flags presented to the company by prominent Chicagoans. All departments of the brewery will be open for the inspection of those who wish to avail themselves of the opportunity to see the process of manufacturing beer. At 5 o’clock the train will return to Milwaukee where a stop-over will be made. Vice-President Dreher, proprietor of the Milwaukee Gardens, has invited the Chicago visitors to visit the Gardens on their return.
The brewery will give employment to 75 men and the full force will be put on in all departments in a short time.
BARREL OF BEER BRINGS $75
At 3 o’clock p.m. Tuesday the sale of the first barrel took place in the wash room. The barrel was empty when sold, but secretary Wosslick informed those present that the first brew was not as yet racked and that the barrel would be filled and delivered by the following evening. He made a little speech in which he informed the bidders that $25 would be added by the company to the amount of the sale and the whole presented to a local charitable institution. Then the bidding began under the direction of the auctioneer coached by the secretary of the company. Bart Lyons bid $10, John wolf $25, Lyons $26. It was raised by small additions by wolf, Roach and Carroll to $70, this figure being offered by Carroll. President Thome informed those present that he would close out the sale in five minutes, Wolf raised the bid to $71. Carroll bid $75 just at the call of time. During the sale beer was dealt out to the crowd by the pail full.
Waukesha Freeman May 17, 1894, page 1
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Brewery Dedication
Rev. J. G. Bine of the Presbyterian church has been visiting the county jail. He told his congregation something about his visit in his Sunday evening sermon. —He paid his his respects to the new brewery in a caustic way, saying he thought it would hurt Waukesha immeasurably as a summer resort. He said he was going to talk about theatres when the people were ready for it, and warned his audience against the “Black Crook.”
also on page 1
[editor – Storm clouds brewing]Brewery Dedication
Last Thursday afternoon during a heavy thunderstorm twenty-three carloads of Chicago and Milwaukee people, nearly 1,500 of them being from the first named city, and about two hundred from Milwaukee, came out here to aid in the dedication of the Spring Brewery. And they did it. All were treated to beer, and at least seven hundred feasted on turkey, ham, etc. The crowd altogether was a rollicking, hilarious one and was here for a good time, but was materially restricted by the storm.
Attempts were made at speed; making were made by President Thome of the Brewing Company; Mayor Hopkins of Chicago, and T. E. Ryan Esq. of Waukesha. The crowd was so noisy, however, that the speakers were very brief in their remarks, as it was not to hear speeches that a great majority was present. Mayor Hopkins and Mr. Ryan praised the enterprise of the Brewery Company and predicted great success for the undertaking.
After the crowd had been satiated with beer and viands, those who desired to took a look through the various departments of the big institution did so, and found many things to interest them, for be it known, the manufacture of beer now-a days embraces many ingenious processes and requires much valuable machinery.
The visitors were here during about two hours and a half and apparently appreciated the opportunity for an outing.
The brewery has already made 10,000 barrels of beer and has shipped fifteen car loads east. The company has cars of its own, decorated with its trade mark and handsomely painted; they will make a conspicuous appearance rolling across the continent.
Waukesha Freeman May 24, 1894, page 1
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Lost – A watch charm. Return to Geo. Dickinson at Waukesha Spring Brewery and receive reward.
Waukesha Freeman June 21, 1894, page 5
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[editor – nationwide or regional coal shortage? Railroad or coal (?) Strike going on, see next item]The supply of coal is sufficient at the gas works and at the Spring Brewery for at least two weeks and there is no anxiety of a coal famine for at least that time. The Wisconsin Central railroad has coal enough for five days and may have too abandon all but through trains after that time.
Waukesha Freeman July 4, 1894, page 1
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STRIKE BURDEN LIFTING
RAILROAD BUSINESS BETTER IN MOST QUARTERS
Freight Moving Again. Lack of Fuel Causes a Few Bottling Establishments to Close Temporarily
The strike situation seems at this writing to be improving, both locally and otherwise. The railroads are doiong considerable freight business and local representatives say the passenger traffic is about as usual. The inconvenience to which our merchants have been subjected is thus passing away. The new Brewery is shipping as usual but two or three water bottling establishments have shut down temporarily.—Two days last week, July 3 and 4, the Waukesha Spring Brewery sent its daily shipment to Milwaukee by wagon and thence to Chicago by boat. It is now shipping as usual by train.
Waukesha Freeman July 12, 1894, page 1
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[editor – Unknown added pressures on the company president]Mrs. Thome, wife of President M. Thome of the Spring Brewing Co., died at her home in Chicago Saturday. She was 40 years of age and leaves four children. The flag over the brewery has been at half mast on account of Mrs. Thome’s death.
Waukesha Freeman August 2, 1894, page 4
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Brewing Co to Entertain
An excursion of ladies from Chicago to Waukesha given by the Waukesha Spring Brewing Co., will take place September 1st. It is said that ladies will man the train which brings the party here, acting as conductor, brakeman, etc. Arrived here the party will dine at the Fountain House, will drive about town and inspect the brewery. They will return to Chicago in the evening.
Waukesha Freeman August 30, 1894, page 1
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[editor – the brewery loses its brew master]J. B. Nierendorf has gone to Danville, Ill., to assume charge of a brewery.
Waukesha Freeman September 13, 1894, page 8
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[editor – mismanagement, breaking contracts, bad beer batches???]WAUKESHA BREWERY LOSES
Case Involving Some Money in a Chicago Court
Chicago Tribune – Last August City Oil Inspector Mangler’s firm made a contract with the Waukesha Spring Brewing Company for the exclusive right to sell the company’s bottled beer in Chicago. This contract ran along for a few months, during which disputes arose, Mangler & Co. claiming the brewery was permitting others bottlers in Chicago to sell its beer, and also that the beer was at times of inferior quality. The result was Mangler & Co. refused to further bottle and sell the Waukesha beer and also refused to pay $1,450 for beer which had been delivered to them. The brewing company began an attachment suit and placed the sheriff in possession of Mangler & Co.’s place and its horses and wagons. Mangler & Co. did not, as is usual, give a forthcoming bond, but permitted the sheriff to continue in possession. Meanwhile the custodian’s fees and costs of feeding the horses ran up to a large amount. Monday the case came on for trial before Judge Freeman, the sheriff being still in possession. The brewing company consumed a day and a half in testimony, when, upon motion of Levy Mayer, Mangler’s attorney, the court without hearing any evidence for the defendants, rendered judgment against the plaintiff, and dissolved the attachment. The brewing company thus not only lost its suit for the claim, but also the costs, sheriff’s fees and costs of keeping the horses. The property levied on must be returned to the defendants, and, in addition, the brewing company is liable on its attachments bond for levying the attachment which Judge Freeman now holds to be illegal. The contention was also made that the brewers’ syndicate was fighting the case.
Waukesha Freeman November 1, 1894, page 3
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A Point for the Brewery
The suit for recovery of wages under contract, brought in county court against the Waukesha Spring Brewery by John Nierendorf, master brewer, claiming to have hired to the brewery for three years, and who was discharged after having served a few months, was non-suited by Judge Griwold after hearing the testimony on the side of the plaintiff, on the ground that the testimony was insufficient to support the complaint. The plaintiff’s attorneys were Messers. Ryan & Merton of this village and Mr. Ogdendorf of Chicago was retained by the defendant.
Waukesha Freeman December 6, 1894, page 1
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Wm. Stamm, chief clerk at the Spring Brewery, spent Sunday with his parents in Chicago.
Waukesha Freeman February 14, 1895, page 8
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[editor – issue with municipal water works]
…, as the C. & N. W. R. R. Co. now supplies (with water) the new brewery.
Waukesha Freeman March 28, 1895
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The Brewery trust fight against the outside companies is likely to be brought to a close in the near future, providing negotiations now pending carry. The beer was at Chicago has forced the price down 50 per cent below the standard price and the brewing interests are getting tired of the fight and an arrangement may be made this week and an understanding arrived at whereby the standard price will prevail again. The Waukesha Spring Brewery has secured a nice trade at Chicago by selling its product at the same price as the trust breweries have and when the price advances this trade will no doubt be retained.
Waukesha Freeman May 2, 1895, page 8
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Spring Brewing Company’s Meeting
The annual meeting of the stockholders of the Waukesha Spring Brewing Co. was held yesterday. The following directors were elected: Matthew Thome, P. Dreher, M. J. Dewald, Fred H. Marx, J. H. Bumges, C. E. Hallstrom, Chas. Greve. Officers were elected as follows: M. Thome, president; P. Dreher, vice-president; M. J. Dewald, secretary; F. H. Marx, treasurer. The business affairs were closed up for the year and the stockholders are gratified with the success of the first year’s work.
Waukesha Freeman May 23, 1895, page 1
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[editor – Brewery president not paying attention to brewery operation? Involved in other matters?]
M. Thome, of the Spring Brewery, is one interested in purchasing a 66 acres farm with home, intending to plat it and market the lots.
Waukesha Freeman August 1, 1895, page 2
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William Stamm has been transferred from book-keeper at the Spring Brewery to manager of the Milwaukee branch of the brewery.
Waukesha Freeman September 5, 1895, page 8
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A BREWERY IN TROUBLE
RECEIVER APPOINTED FOR THE BIG CONCERN HERE
F. H. Marx Made Receiver by Judge Seaman of the U. S. Court. The Concern Bankrupt
Tuesday afternoon a lien for $526 was filed against the property of the Waukesha Spring Brewing Co. by Edw. Cahill on account of plumbing materials and labor furnished within the past two years, and about the same time a receiver was being appointed by Judge Seaman at Milwaukee on application of Charles Greve, F. H. Marx, M. J. DeWald and M. Thome of chicago, stockholders and bondholders of the company. The petition was granted and F. H. Marx was chosen receiver and his bond fixed at $100,000. He was the treasurer of the company.
The receivership is the outcome of quarrels between the officers resulting from alleged mismanagement. It is said that meetings of the directory have been impossible for several weeks, owing to a refusal of the members to attend. It is also stated that the company is without president or secretary, President M. Thome and Secretary DeWald having resigned. It was found impossible to elect other officers to fill the vacancies, since the directory could not get together. A few months ago, it will be remembered, the Milwaukee saloons of the Waukesha brewery, which were mortgaged to Max Dreher, were sold by him to the Schoenhofen Brewing Co. of Chicago, and since then there has been little of the “Fox head” beer sold there, the principal part of the product, it is said, going to Chicago.
In the petition it is alleged that the company was capitalized for $200,000 and bonds issued for $100,000, secured by a mortgage to the Milwaukee Trust company. The company was unable to sell $53,000 of bonds, and, as it was necessary to secure money for the operation of the plant, the bonds were pledged as collateral. It is stated that the company is insolvent, the floating indebtedness being $50,000 which includes $4,500 on the payroll. Actions have been commenced in this state and Illinois, the petition shows, for money demands on contracts amounting to $250,000, the validity of which the company has been unable to determine owing to the resignation of the president and secretary, and because no meeting of the board of directors has been held, at which there was a quorum, for six weeks. Notes aggregating $20,000 are alleged to be due and maturing, and the holders had threatened proceedings unless a settlement was made.
NO ASSETS BUT BEER
The petition stated that all the company owned outside of the personal property which is absolutely necessary to carry on the business, is located in Waukesha, comprising the brewery. There is, it states, no cash on hand, and the only available asset is 7,000 barrels of beer. The company has enough material on hand to continue the manufacture of beer for a time. It also has a good list of customers in Chicago, in order to retain which it is necessary to continue the operation of brewing without interruption.
Most of the interested parties were in court during the proceeding. The petitioners’ case was presented by T. E. Ryan of Waukesha, who informed the court that there was no opposition to the appointment of a receiver, and that it was absolutely necessary. Mr. Marx’s appointment was asked for on the ground that he was familiar with the business and resided in Chicago where most of the stock was owned and the principal part of the business was done. He argued that if a Wisconsin receiver were appointed, the receiver’s expenses would be increased. Attorney Kroft of Chicago, attorney for the company, agreed with Mr. Ryan and stated that the company would file answer to the petition admitting the truth of the allegations.
CHICAGOANS WANT THE PLANT
It is said that the Schoenhofen Brewing company of Chicago will probably secure the Waukesha brewery eventually. A. J. Lauer of the Schoenhofen company, who was present in the courtroom during the proceedings, stated that the plant was a splendid one, and that the misfortunes of the Waukesha company are the result of mismanagement.
Waukesha Springs brewery was opened with a dash about two years ago. A special train ran up to Waukesha from Chicago, and a grand opening was had at the new brewery, followed by a kind of secondary sitting at Milwaukee Garden.
Waukesha Freeman October 31, 1895, page 1
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TO OUST RECEIVER MARX
BREWERY STOCKHOLDERS APPEAL TO THE COURT
Say the Institution Was Purposely Wrecked, and Violently Accuse the Receiver
In the United States court in Milwaukee on Monday, application was made for the removal of Frederick H. Marx as receiver of the Waukesha Spring Brewing company, noticed having been served upon the officers of the company at Waukesha last week.
The application is made by William Mangler, Charles V. Wohlhmeter and W. J. Mayer, representing a majority of the stockholders of the company. The committee prefer some sensational charges, alleging fraud, collusion and corruption and deal severely with Receiver Marx.
Among other things it is charged that the company was wantonly wrecked for the purpose of depreciating the value of the stock and enabling the complainants in the original bill on which the receiver was appointed, to secure control of the property.
The petitioners allege that the facts alleged in the bill of complaint are insufficient in law to give the court jurisdiction to appoint a receiver or to grant the relief prayed for and that by filing of said bill the court did not obtain jurisdiction. It is further set forth that the stockholders, except the complainants, were not notified of the application for the appointment of a receiver and that if the petitioners had had the opportunity to be heard they believe the court would not have entertained jurisdiction.
If the corporation is insolvent, the petitioners allege, it is entirely due to misconduct and mismanagement on the part of the complainants as board of directors, and the charge is made that the insolvency was caused by collusion between the complainants and officers.
The petitioners further charge the complainants with having endeavored to bring about the insolvency of the corporation and placing it in the hands of a receiver for the purpose of gaining full control of its affairs and depreciating the value of the stock.
As for Receiver Marx the petitioners allege that he was instrumental in wrecking the concern, that he “does not possess sufficient educational qualifications and financial experience and knowledge to properly manage and understand the affairs of the corporation as receiver,” that he has never had any experience in conducting the affairs of the brewery except that he has been engaged in keeping a saloon, and that the petitioners have been unable to find him in the offices of the company so that they could make an examination of the books.
Judge Seaman was busy Monday and so postponed the case until next Monday,, when it will be heard at 11 o’clock.
Local employees of the company here say business is moving smoothly and making money.
Waukesha Freeman November 21, 1895, page 1
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Frank Ruder and A. J. Lauer of Chicago were guests of William Stamm, Sunday. They are employed in the general offices of the Spring Brewery at Chicago.
Waukesha Freeman November 21, 1895, page 8
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ISSUES OF FACT FOR COURT
J. J. Constantine and F. R. Fuller vs. the Waukesha Spring Brewing Company.
Fred C. Mueller vs. the Waukesha Spring Brewing Company.
Waukesha Freeman December 5, 1895, page 2
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Manager Dickinson Resigns
Receiver Marx of the Waukesha Spring Brewery was here this week looking over the plant and making necessary arrangements to continue the manufacture of beer. Manager Dickinson has tendered his resignation and the Manager of the Milwaukee branch will be put in charge temporarily. The stockholders have decided not to push their opposition to the continuance of Mr. Marx as receiver and he will remain in the position until the property is sold by the Court; probably early in 1896.
Wm. Stamm will have charge of the books and accounts under the direction of Receiver Marx.
Waukesha Freeman December 12, 1895, page 1
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Spring Brewery Affairs
Receiver Fred H. Marx of the Waukesha Spring Brewing company has applied to the United States district court for an order allowing him to issue $2,500 in receiver’s certificates to pay interest on outstanding bonds. Mr. Marx says that the settlement of the brewers’ war in Chicago will increase the revenue of the Spring Brewery at least $25,000 a year and he is in hopes that he will be able to clear up the indebtedness of the company without any further applications for relief to the courts, and turn the brewery over to the company in excellent financial condition.
Waukesha Freeman January 9, 1896, page 3
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George Dickinson, who was until recently manager of the Waukesha Spring Brewery, will soon take his family to Chicago to reside.
Waukesha Freeman January 9, 1896, page 8
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Another Brewery Receiver
At Oconomowoc last week Judge Parks appointed Anton J. Lauer receiver for the Waukesha Spring Brewing Co. on the petition of one pf the judgment creditors, Henry J. Blakely. This move grows out of a judgment secured by Quarles, Spence & Quarles for attorneys’ fees, which judgment was docketed last November, and assigned to the plaintiff Blakely. This makes two receivers that have been appointed.
Waukesha Freeman January 30, 1896, page 4
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No Change Likely at the Spring Brewery
Matthew Thome of the Waukesha Spring Brewery was in town last week inspecting the brewery. He was interviewed by a reporter at the St. Charles Hotel in Milwaukee and stated that the creditors of the old company had all been settled with and that the company would be reorganized and directors elected. Wm. Stamm, assistant director in charge, said Monday that as far as he knew, nothing had been done toward a reorganization of the company by the present stockholders, and that the brewery was not paying running expenses and would probably remain in the hands of a receiver until it was placed on a paying basis. There are seventeen men employed in the brewery at present. A brew-master has been here to inspect the plant and may be engaged later.
Waukesha Freeman February 20, 1896, page 2
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RECEIVERSHIP FEES
Seaman Fixes Amount in Waukesha Brewery Case
Judge Seaman Monday allowed Fred H. Marx of the Waukesha Spring Brewery, $2,500 for his services, of $5,000 as asked for. Layers Ryan & Merton of Waukesha, also asked for $5,000, were cut in the same amount. The law firm of ? & Wood, of Chicago, who did the receiver’s business in that city were allowed $1.250. These allowances bring services up to date.
Waukesha Freeman May 14, 1896, page 1
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Brewery Sale June 20
Receiver Marx of the Waukesha Spring Brewing Company has fixed the sale of the property for June 20. In his notices of sale the receiver states that the property will be sold for cash. The sale will take place at 10 o’clock in the morning at the office of the company at Grand Ave. and Williams St., Waukesha. The attempt of the bondholders and stockholders to reorganize the company has failed and it is said that the purchasers will be disinterested parties. The purchaser will be obliged to make a deposit of $25,000.
Waukesha Freeman May 28, 1896, page 8
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An Attachment for $14,000
The Waukesha Spring Brewing Co. has issued an attachment against the Milwaukee Gardens, in Milwaukee, owned by Pins Dreher, to secure the sum of $14,000, which the brewing company claims Dreher subscribed when the brewery was started and has never paid. The case is in litigation and the attachment is issued to hold the real estate, in case the suit results favorably to the brewing company.
Waukesha Freeman November 19, 1896, page 1
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The resignation of A. J. Laurer as manager of the Waukesha Spring Brewing Co. has been announced. He has been with the concern for some time, covering the period when the brewery was in the hands of a receiver. He has not settled on his future plans.
Waukesha Freeman November 26, 1896, page 8
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[editor – a misprint in name or a different brewery?]
Truman Hopkins, whose boyhood days were passed in Vernon and this town and who will be remembered by many of the old boys and girls of the fifties, has charge of the big engine and ice machine at the Spring City brewery, Waukesha.
Waukesha Freeman April 15, 1897, page 11
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[editor – Same as the Waukesha Imperial Spring Brewing Co.; some sources state it was renamed this as early as 1895, which appears to be in error? This is the latest newspaper entry found to date, still calling it the Waukesha Spring Brewery aka Waukesha Spring Brewing Co.]
C. R. Manegold, manager of the Waukesha Spring Brewery, has taken one of the Lain houses on E. Park Avenue. The family has been living in Milwaukee.
Waukesha Freeman